In the days leading up to Monday's clash, Ronaldo's sister, Katia Aveiro, suggested that the tournament would likely be his last. The speculation was confirmed by the Portugal captain himself during a pre-match press conference, as reported by TVI.

"It will be my last World Cup, yes," Ronaldo said, adding that he hoped the match against Spain would not be his final appearance in the competition.

However, Portugal's 1-0 defeat brought their World Cup campaign to an end, making it Ronaldo's last match on football's biggest stage. At 41, he leaves the tournament after becoming one of the few players in history to represent his country at six FIFA World Cups.